Two of the group’s venues (the Mockingbird, Chester, and Casa Matta, Northwich) have closed with immediate effect with a number of staff laid off, the Liverpool Echo reported yesterday evening.
A note on Casa Matta's website reads: "Due to unfortunate circumstances, we are closing our doors. We appreciate all the support and loyalty you have shown us over the years – we will miss you."
Partner takes reins
Newman’s partner, David Mooney, and his wife Jane have taken the reins of number of remaining sites including Liverpool’s Old Blind School under a different company, Carrwood Catering Ltd – meaning they are expected to remain open.
Jane Mooney told the Chester Chronicle there were plans for many existing staff to be rehoused within other sites and that staff who had been let go had been “paid up” and would not lose holiday pay.
New pastures
Paul Newman announced his departure from New Moon on Twitter earlier this week, saying he was moving on to “new pastures”.
But, he tweeted: “Just to be clear – David Mooney is a legend and we are mates and we will work together again in the future.”
The Morning Advertiser has attempted to reach Newman and Mooney for comment.